Outdoors NearbyElkhorn Hot Springs
A small wooden soaking box on the rocks beside the Salmon River near mile marker 192, about 5 miles east of Stanley. Elkhorn Hot Springs is on public land and free to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Small soaking box on the rocks between Highway 75 and the Salmon River east of Stanley. |
|---|---|
| Type | Primitive soaking tub |
| Location | Stanley, ID Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Water | 136 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980) |
Best time to soak: Elkhorn Hot Springs
Coming from Boise, ID? Elkhorn Hot Springs lies about 79 miles to the northeast, straight-line distance.
Hot water is most welcome on cold days. From October to May average highs around Stanley stay at 28 to 60 °F, with nights down to 4 °F. Freezing nights from October to May mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30 °F | 4 °F | 5 |
| Feb | 35 °F | 7 °F | 5 |
| Mar | 43 °F | 14 °F | 6 |
| Apr | 49 °F | 21 °F | 6 |
| May | 60 °F | 30 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 69 °F | 35 °F | 4 |
| Jul | 80 °F | 39 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 80 °F | 37 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 70 °F | 31 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 55 °F | 24 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 39 °F | 14 °F | 6 |
| Dec | 28 °F | 6 °F | 7 |
More to do nearby
- Goat Falls (waterfall, 8 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
More hot springs nearby
- Sunbeam Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
- Sheepeater Hot Springs Free
- Atlanta Hot Springs Free
- Russian John Hot Springs Free
- Sunflower Hot Springs Free
- Kirkham Hot Springs Free
- Easley Hot Springs Day pass
Waterfalls nearby
- Goat Falls (8 mi)
- Lady Face Falls (11 mi)
- Bridal Veil Falls (11 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Elkhorn Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Elkhorn Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
How hot is Elkhorn Hot Springs?
136 °F at the source (USGS/NOAA survey, 1980). Pool temperatures are usually lower than at the source and change with the season.
How far is Elkhorn Hot Springs from Boise?
About 79 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.